History of Innovation

AB was founded in 1993 by Alfred E. Mann with the mission to develop implantable patient care solutions that improve quality of life.

AB evolved from two highly successful companies that developed and marketed innovative medical devices; one created new generation pacemakers, and the other developed microinfusion systems (miniature drug delivery pumps used in the treatment of diabetes). The technology behind AB’s first cochlear implant system came from the pioneering research at the University of California, San Francisco.

Since its inception, AB has consistently made industry-leading advancements in technology innovations that have helped make a difference in the lives of thousands of families worldwide.

Today, AB offers the most sophisticated cochlear implant system on the market with five times more sound resolution than its competitors, designed to allow recipients to go beyond deciphering speech to hearing music.

Now working with Phonak under the Sonova Group, AB has access to industry-leading engineering and technologies for products currently under development. These revolutionary products are designed to deliver unparalleled hearing performance, comfort, and reliability for recipients.

AB Timeline

1993

Intrigued by the notion of “helping deaf people hear,” Alfred E. Mann founds Advanced Bionics and appoints Jeffrey H. Greiner to lead an organization of seven engineers and scientists.

1996

Approval from the FDA to market the ClarionTM cochlear implant with pre-formed electrode for use in adults. The Clarion sound processor is released, the industry’s first multi-program processor with unique single headpiece design, independent volume and sensitivity controls, and nothing on the ear.

1997

Approval to market its Clarion cochlear implants for use in children.

The S-SeriesTM sound processor is released.

2001

Launch of the CII Bionic EarTM implant and HiFocusTM electrode, capable of being upgraded through software programming for advancing hearing performance without additional surgery.

The CII BTE and the Platinum BTE are approved for release.

Introduction of the Bionic Ear Association, a support network for candidates and AB recipients in North America.

2002

Launch in Europe of the HiResolution strategy providing full spectrum delivery with high rate of stimulation for better temporal definition.

Launch of the T-MicTM microphone, giving recipients effortless wireless connectivity to cellphones, headsets, and MP3 players. Direct ConnectTM and iConnectTM earhook options are made available to best suit the listening task at hand.

2003

Launch of the HiRes 90KTM implant with a new surgical design that retains unparalleled capability for upgrades through software programming to advance hearing performance without additional surgery.

Launch of the AuriaTM sound processor and new programming software SoundWaveTM Professional Suite capable of fitting HiResolutionTM (HiRes) Sound Processing.

Thousands of AB recipients are upgraded to HiRes providing recipients with the opportunity to hear better in noise and real-world environments.

Launch of the T-MicTM microphone, giving recipients effortless wireless connectivity to cellphones, headsets, and MP3 players. Direct ConnectTM and iConnectTM earhook options are made available to best suit the listening task at hand.

2004

Boston Scientific acquires Advanced Bionics.

2006

Launch of the HarmonyTM HiResolutionTM Bionic Ear System (Harmony), the world’s most sophisticated cochlear implant system using cutting-edge technology to deliver the best possible hearing experience.

Launch of HiRes Fidelity 120TM * sound processing with groundbreaking current steering technology for more precise hearing in real-world situations and greater music enjoyment.

*HiRes Fidelity 120 is not approved for pediatric patients in the United States.

2007

Boston Scientific completes sale of Advanced Bionics to former principals and shareholders.

Launch of the HearingJourneyTM online community in North America, providing easy access to education and support for candidates and recipients.

2008

CI-SMARTTM study is conducted, identifying and analyzing the top cochlear implant clinic reimbursement issues affecting clinics across the country in North America.

2009

AB is acquired by Sonova Holding AG and began working with Phonak on future generation technologies that benefit recipients and professionals.

Launch of the Processor DirectTM program for faster processor returns.

2010

Launch of ClearVoiceTM **, a revolutionary sound-processing strategy, in Europe, Asia and Canada.

AB partners with SkinitTM, the leading company in consumer electronics personalization, to offer custom-made Skinit designs for AB sound processors.

Launch of The Listening CheckTM diagnostic tool that can easily verify that a child’s equipment is functioning properly.

**ClearVoice™ is not approved nor available for sale in the United States.

2011

Sonova Holding AG, the parent company of Advanced Bionics, adds a new Management Board position, Group Vice President Medical, responsible for overseeing the Group’s hearing implant segment, including AB and Phonak Acoustic Implants.